The Inspector General of Liberia National Police, Gregory O. Coleman, held a meeting with the authorities of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) to address health concerns regarding helmet usage among motorcyclists carrying multiple passengers.
On Friday, May 17, 2024, both institutions observed safety regulations aimed at preventing the transmission of pathogenic organisms and reducing head injuries during road traffic accidents. As a result, IGP Coleman and NPHIL have mandated all motorcyclists and passengers to adhere to the following hygiene measures.
The measures highlights helmets cleaning , instructing that motorcyclists clean their helmets regularly on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis using disinfectant sprays.
Helmet and gloves separation is among the measures emphasizing motorcyclists avoid placing their gloves inside the helmets.
The measures include head covering, in which passengers will cover their heads before wearing a helmet.
Optional Nose Mask, Passengers may choose to wear a nose mask for additional protection, while personal Helmets and Sanitizers where Passengers who frequently travel by motorcycle will be made to consider carrying their own helmets and sanitizer spray.
Inspector General Coleman and Director General of NPHIL, Hon. Jane A. MaCauley, are encouraging the general public to remain law-abiding. They expressed their commitment to the protection and safety of all residents and road users across the country.
IG Coleman assured the public that with these new safety measures in place, the risk of contracting communicable diseases from shared helmet usage is significantly reduced.
During the weekend, the LNP and NPHIL mandated that all motorcyclists and passengers adhere to the new health and safety measures. These measures include regular helmet cleaning and avoiding placing gloves inside helmets. Passengers are advised to cover their heads before wearing a helmet and may choose to wear a nose mask for added protection. Frequent motorcycle passengers are encouraged to carry their own helmets and sanitizer sprays.
At a ceremony in Monrovia, Col. Coleman commended NPHIL for providing the LNP with the safety measures. He emphasized that the police will work closely with NPHIL to enforce these health measures and educate the public on their importance.
“Many people may want to comply but may not be aware of these measures needed to move forward. We want to thank the public health family [NPHIL] for their support; we will continue to promote these guidelines,” Col. Coleman stated.
He also announced upcoming training sessions for motorcyclists, which will now include a public health component based on NPHIL’s advice. This addition aims to ensure comprehensive understanding and compliance with the new measures.
Col. Coleman noted that the police would make necessary adjustments to enhance traffic flow and the movement of citizens as enforcement continues. He also warned politicians against exploiting the situation for political gain.
“Some politicians are pretending to seek the interests of the citizens while their real motive is to score political points at the expense of the people. This is unacceptable and must stop,” Col. Coleman emphasized.
Credit: Willie N. Tokpah and Blamo Toe/ Contributing Writers
